May4, 2017

RIVEROAK Technical College (RTC) held an anniversary celebration marking the 50 years of the practical nursing program on RTC’s campus on April 27.

RTC Director Mary Keen welcomed those in attendance followed by Superintendent of Suwannee Schools Ted Roush.

Former instructor of the practical nursing program Wynn McDonald was the keynote speaker of the evening. McDonald was one of the first instructors for the program and was able to speak on the history of the program and how it got the where it is at today. McDonald’s speech spoke of how the program over came early struggles including purchasing a doublewide mobile home to be their classroom.

Keen spoke very highly of the celebration. Upon the conclusion of the event, Keen says, “It was indeed an honor and privilege to be part of the 50th Celebration of RIVEROAK Technical College's Licensed Practical Nursing Program. The LPN Program has had a significant impact upon our Suwannee County Community in producing well-qualified and caring nurses these last 50 years. Ms. Hilda Collins, one of our current instructors, said it best, ‘We remind the students where they came from, show them where they're at and let them see where they're going.’"